
Palm
Arecaceae · Bamboo
- Type
- Bamboo
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, particularly Southeast Asia and the Pacific
- Hardness
- 2500+ lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to wear but vulnerable to fungal decay if left untreated
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Grain Pattern
Interspersed vascular bundles creating a speckled, fibrous texture rather than traditional growth rings
Color & Appearance
Light tan to pale brownish-cream with darker scattered fibrovascular bundles
Hardness (Janka)
2500+ lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to wear but vulnerable to fungal decay if left untreated
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on processing
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut or recently harvested sample, less than a year old
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable as palm trees grow rapidly and can be harvested sustainably, not typically CITES listed
Common Uses
Flooring, decking, heavy-duty construction, interior paneling, and turned decorative items
Geographic Origin
Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, particularly Southeast Asia and the Pacific
Workability
Difficult to work with standard woodworking tools due to the extreme hardness of the outer vascular bundles and soft inner parenchyma tissue, causes rapid dulling
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, polyurethane, or hardwax oils work well; requires thorough sanding and sealing to handle the varying density between fibers and matrix
Notable Features
Lacks true growth rings, true wood, or rays; composed of vascular bundles embedded in soft parenchymatous tissue; highly abrasive dust